• stearic acid
• calcium carbonate
• biocomposites
• poly(lactic acid)
• surface modification
• inorganic filler
• organic acid
• oleic acid
• maleic acid
• malic acid

Chemical modification of the surface of calcium carbonate by grafting reactions with appropriate organic acids for the dispersion of the filler in a compostable polymeric matrix for the preparation of micro-structured hybrid organic/inorganic composites by processing in molten state or in solution. Different polymeric matrices chosen for their biodegradability and compostability characteristics will be investigated. Surface modified CaCO3 and CaCO3 will be used as inorganic fillers, modulating the degree of filler and the chemical nature of the modifying agent.
Composite preparations with modulated filler content will be prepared. Other percentages may be possible depending on the first results achieved.